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Potassium nitrite

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Identification
Molecular formula
KNO2
CAS number
7758-09-0
IUPAC name
potassium;nitrite
State
State

At room temperature, potassium nitrite is a solid.

Melting point (Celsius)
441.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
714.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
537.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
810.15
General information
Molecular weight
85.10g/mol
Molar mass
85.1030g/mol
Density
1.9150g/cm3
Appearence

Potassium nitrite is a white to yellowish crystalline solid.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Potassium Nitrite

Potassium nitrite, with the chemical formula KNO2, is known for its distinct solubility properties in various solvents. Here are some key points regarding its solubility:

  • Water Solubility: Potassium nitrite is highly soluble in water. It has a solubility of approximately 32 grams per 100 milliliters at room temperature, making it readily available for various applications.
  • Influence of Temperature: The solubility of KNO2 increases with temperature, meaning that it can dissolve in larger quantities in hot water compared to cold water.
  • Organic Solvents: Potassium nitrite shows low solubility in organic solvents, which affects its use in non-aqueous solutions and reactions.
  • Salt Formation: Its solubility characteristics in water allow it to dissociate easily into potassium ions (K+) and nitrite ions (NO2-), which can be important in various chemical reactions.

In summary, potassium nitrite demonstrates a significant level of solubility in water, making it a versatile compound in both laboratory and industrial settings. Its efficient solvation expands its utility in processes demanding soluble nitrite ions, but care should be taken regarding its interactions with different solvents.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Potassium Nitrite

Poiassium nitrite, with its unique properties and applications, is an intriguing compound for both chemists and industry professionals. Here are some compelling facts:

  • Historical Significance: Potassium nitrite has a rich history, initially used in ancient preservation techniques. The famous Egyptian mummification process, known for preserving bodies for centuries, utilized substances containing nitrites.
  • Modern Applications: Today, potassium nitrite is widely used in various fields, including:
    • Food preservation: Acts as a curing agent in meats, providing flavor and inhibiting microbial growth.
    • Chemical manufacturing: Serves as an intermediate in producing dyes and fertilizers.
    • Pharmaceuticals: Plays a role in the synthesis of certain drugs and can be used to treat certain types of poisoning.
  • Corrosion Inhibition: In industrial applications, potassium nitrite is employed as a corrosion inhibitor in cooling systems and boiler water treatments, helping to prolong the life of equipment.
  • Environmental Considerations: While potassium nitrite has valuable applications, it is essential to manage its use responsibly due to potential environmental impacts when released in excess.
  • Safety Measures: When handling potassium nitrite, researchers and industrial workers must observe safety protocols due to its classification as a potentially hazardous substance. Protective gear is essential!

In summary, potassium nitrite is not just a simple compound; it plays vital roles across various sectors, blending history, chemistry, and modern industry into a fascinating narrative.